Editor’s Note – November/December 2018

"When you create, you find a way to make the magic happen."

Editor’s Note – November/December 2018

Written by: Julia Perla Huisman
November 10, 2018

Although I’m not a fan of winter weather, I admit there is a still, soft beauty to it. During this time of year in particular it even has a romantic quality, because it is so psychologically linked to the anticipation of the holiday season. We all hope for a white Christmas, and when it actually happens there seems to be an extra dose of magic in the air. (Which, funny enough, quickly fades once December 26 hits.)

In the magazine world, creating that kind of magic for a holiday issue can be a challenge. Because our print deadlines are so far in advance, we had to put this issue together in the late summer/early fall months. There aren’t even leaves on the ground at this time, let alone snow, so delivering that romantic, wintry feel can seem impossible.

Thankfully, our amazing photographers take photos all year long, often just for the fun of it. We asked a few of them to submit photos they’ve taken in previous winter and holiday seasons, and they delivered some seriously stunning pieces. See their photo essay on page 64.

For our fashion spread, we stumbled upon a glorious hidden gem in Crown Point—white limestone hills at a seemingly abandoned construction site. From the road, a passerby probably wouldn’t think twice about them. But when we arrived at the site and walked into the depths of the hills, we were struck with awe. It felt like we were shooting in the mountains of Iceland; there were shallow pools of crystal blue water and everything. It was the perfect setting for a winter shoot—even though it was 82 degrees that day.

The point is, when you create, you find a way to make the magic happen, no matter what. This is one of the most creative times of the year, which is why we find ourselves more inspired during the holidays. I hope this issue will spark your creativity and help you to look for and appreciate those magical moments that only this season can bring.

Have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Julia Perla Huisman
Editor and Publisher

Although I’m not a fan of winter weather, I admit there is a still, soft beauty to it. During this time of year in particular it even has a romantic quality, because it is so psychologically linked to the anticipation of the holiday season. We all hope for a white Christmas, and when it actually happens there seems to be an extra dose of magic in the air. (Which, funny enough, quickly fades once December 26 hits.)

In the magazine world, creating that kind of magic for a holiday issue can be a challenge. Because our print deadlines are so far in advance, we had to put this issue together in the late summer/early fall months. There aren’t even leaves on the ground at this time, let alone snow, so delivering that romantic, wintry feel can seem impossible.

Thankfully, our amazing photographers take photos all year long, often just for the fun of it. We asked a few of them to submit photos they’ve taken in previous winter and holiday seasons, and they delivered some seriously stunning pieces. See their photo essay on page 64.

For our fashion spread, we stumbled upon a glorious hidden gem in Crown Point—white limestone hills at a seemingly abandoned construction site. From the road, a passerby probably wouldn’t think twice about them. But when we arrived at the site and walked into the depths of the hills, we were struck with awe. It felt like we were shooting in the mountains of Iceland; there were shallow pools of crystal blue water and everything. It was the perfect setting for a winter shoot—even though it was 82 degrees that day.

The point is, when you create, you find a way to make the magic happen, no matter what. This is one of the most creative times of the year, which is why we find ourselves more inspired during the holidays. I hope this issue will spark your creativity and help you to look for and appreciate those magical moments that only this season can bring.